14 April 2022
Once placed on a demolitions list, the Chapel of the Holy Trinity at Point Cook has reopened after a full restoration.
The building started operational use as the RAAF Academy Assembly Hall in 1968 and was consecrated as the Chapel of the Holy Trinity in 1987.
From 1992 to 2011, residents of Point Cook used the chapel as their local parish.
Director of Heritage Estates and Centres, Group Captain Robert Coopes, was the project lead for the chapel’s restoration.
“Chief of Air Force has recognised the chapel’s value on this national heritage-listed site and endorsed keeping it as part of Air Force’s contemporary history,” Group Captain Coopes said.
The chapel is the final resting place for the Air Force’s laid up Queen’s Colours, banners and squadron standards, which have been replaced or belonged to disbanded units.
The re-opening ceremony on March 30 included placing the former Queen’s Colours for the Air Force, retired on March 2021, into the chapel.
Director General Chaplaincy PAC James Fox said the chapel was a place where colours were kept with ‘reverence’.
“The colours have done their time, they’ve been replaced, and they’re laid up here until they fade away,” he said.
Flight Lieutenant Trish Firth carries the outgoing Queen's Colour during the Chapel of the Holy Trinity reopening at RAAF Base Point Cook, Melbourne. Photo: Leading Aircraftman Sam Price
To help preserve the colours, the chapel had museum-standard air-conditioning installed that keeps the room at a constant temperature and humidity.
The colours also benefit from new double-glazed windows, which filter UV light from the room.
A new colour rail system was designed and installed by Spear of Fame who also manufactured the new Queen’s Colour.
They also assisted with the hanging, along with Senior Air Force Curator Dave Gardner, RAAF Museum Curator Emily Constantine and Warrant Officer Daryl Bessell, Heritage Ceremonial.
Other upgrades included restoration to the roof and parquetry flooring.
A local company that had been in the pew business since 1875 restored the pews.
The restoration work was managed by History and Heritage Branch – Air Force, RAAF Museum and No. 21 Squadron.
To view more photos visit the Defence image gallery.
